Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .

Fig 1: Locating Wheel Drive Shaft Spindle Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Insert a drift or punch into the rotor and against the brake caliper mounting bracket.
Using the appropriate tool, loosen the wheel drive shaft spindle nut.

Fig 2: View Of Wheel Drive Shaft Spindle Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: DO NOT re-use the wheel drive shaft spindle nut. Replace with NEW.

Remove and discard the wheel drive shaft spindle nut.

Fig 3: View Of Hub Removal Tools

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Using the J 42129 , disengage the wheel drive shaft from the wheel hub/bearing. See Special Tools .
Remove the rear suspension knuckle. Refer to Knuckle Replacement .

Fig 4: Releasing Wheel Drive Shaft From Rear Differential

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Using a suitable tool, carefully release the wheel drive shaft from the rear drive module (RDM).

Fig 5: View Of Wheel Drive Shaft

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Because of the design of the inner seal wheel drive shaft seal, the seal will be removed at the same time the wheel drive shaft is. Replace the seal, DO NOT re-use the seal.

Remove the wheel drive shaft from the vehicle.
Remove the wheel drive seal.

Fig 6: Removing/Installing Wheel Drive Shaft Retaining Ring

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: DO NOT re-use the retaining clip, replace with new.

Remove the retaining ring from the tripod.